If you are on the EV bandwagon, one of your go-to options is, likely, from the Tesla lineup. The American company pioneered modern-day EVs thus making its mark in the automotive industry. Tesla continues to sell strong and the company plans to ramp up production in 2025. But what about a used Tesla EV? This is becoming an increasingly popular car purchase option in recent years, and not just in the US.
Battery degradation is one of the most prevalent issues when buying a used EV. This isn't a new issue. Your laptop and smartphone have a similar, Lithium-ion battery that degrades with time. I've seen it on my old laptop and you probably have too. So, how new does a used EV need to be, to be considered as a viable purchase? One member of the Tesla Motor Club may have given us a hint as he recently acquired a 2018 Tesla Model 3 Long Range. Here's what he says:
“Adding data.
My 2018 Tesla Model 3 Long Range AWD (~ Oct pickup) shows 271 miles @ 100% now (from 310 new) as of Jan 2025. It's enough degradation I'm starting to feel the shorter range on road trips, even with efficient tires (Hankook Ion EVO). The car has 84,000 miles.
As of Dec 2021, it would show 285 miles @ 100%, when the car had 39K miles.
(I usually charge to 70-80%, and then 90 or 100 for road trips only).
(New Model Y is looking really good...)”
Comparing statistics on FuelEconomy.gov, I see that the 2018 Telsa Model 3, indeed, has 310 miles of EPA range. Judging by the owner's 271-mile range at full charge, it seems the Tesla Model 3 Long Range has lost roughly 13 percent of its battery capacity, over a seven to eight-year period. To put things in perspective, the 2018 Tesla Model 3 Standard Range has a 260-mile range on a fully-charged battery (when new).
What are you getting with the 2018 Tesla Model 3 Long Range?
Being a 2018, this is a dual-motor Tesla Model 3 Long Range. Those feature a 75-kWh battery. You still get a decent amount of performance with the single-motor variant as 0 to 60 mph happens in 4.4 seconds while the top speed is 144 mph.
Is there a point where used EVs become unsellable?
The battery pack in EVs should, typically, last 10 to 20 years. Judging from the number of troublesome cars, service recalls, and the rate of battery degradation in some models, 10 years seems to be more accurate. This member's 2018 Tesla Model 3 is seeing battery degradation that has led to roughly 13 percent loss of range.
Range anxiety is still a thing and the owner shares that he is starting to feel the difference during road trips, between what the range should be and what it is. Tesla cars, generally, feature a high electric range compared to the competition, but apparently, real-life figures tell a slightly different story.
With battery replacement costs ranging anywhere from $5,000 to well over $20,000, it begs the question, do most EVs become unsellable after 8 years of use? This Tesla Model 3 owner may soon find himself in a similar predicament, given the state of the EV battery. I am curious to know what you think. What would you do? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comment section below.
Tips to maximize your range in a used EV
1. Use regenerative braking.
Most if not all EVs have regenerative braking, which recuperates energy from the brakes and stores it in the battery. There are typically two or more settings - one allows for less engine braking (and less energy recuperation) while the other allows for stronger engine braking, but less distance. Depending on the driving conditions, the stronger setting may not always result in more efficiency. You can experiment to find out.
2. Smoother driving
Smoother driving is a key factor for efficiency, not just in EVs, but in all vehicles, used or new. My personal philosophy when driving is to use the least amount of movement. Don't press the throttle harder than you need to.
3. Choosing the right tires
Tire options are plentiful and different models prioritize different aspects. Try to choose tires with the best efficiency rating if you want to maximize your range. There are other tire specifications you also need to look at, like tire load, speed index, DOT.
4. Correect tire pressure
Each vehicle has a plaque/ sticker denoting the correct tire pressure. Use it for reference. The more inflated the tires are the less ground resistance they have, thus maximizing range. Too much tire pressure, however, and the tires may cause handling issues and you are more likely to have a flat tire.
5. Be smart about your route planning and choice of charging stations
If you need to recharge your EV, try to avoid traffic-dense areas. Ideally, stick to the highway and do not deviate into nearby towns.
6. Switch off unnecessary accessories
Having heated and cooled seats is nice, but you don't need that most of the time. All features of your EV consume additional energy and reduce your range. You also don't need the A/C to work all the time. If you do, there is usually an ECO mode or you can be smart with the settings, so it doesn't work at full blast.
Dimitar Angelov's automotive interests made him an expert in a wide variety of vehicles. Japanese brands like Toyota are closest to his heart, although performance cars in general are his favorite segment, which is why he is constantly on the lookout for the best deals on the market. Dimitar Angelov's car passion and knack for the written word led him to complete a Master of Arts in Media and Communications, and classic car restoration. Dim is happy to get behind the wheel of any car and share his impressions. You can follow Dimitar on X, Linked-in, Instagram, and Facebook.
Comments
My 2016 Prius is good for…
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My 2016 Prius is good for 570mi of range for ~$30 sure it's not as fast but has a much more comfortable ride, is more dependable and cost about half as much to buy. Also it can cruise on the freeway at 80mph and still avg 52mpg
I like the new Prius. The…
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In reply to My 2016 Prius is good for… by Dang (not verified)
I like the new Prius. The older ones, I never warmed up to them, but I cannot deny their qualities and what makes them great commuter cars. I'm glad you are happy with your choice of car.
I like the new Prius. The…
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In reply to My 2016 Prius is good for… by Dang (not verified)
I like the new Prius. The older ones, I never warmed up to them, but I cannot deny their qualities and what makes them great commuter cars. I'm glad you are happy with your choice of car.
Gee why isn't anyone talking…
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In reply to I like the new Prius. The… by Dimitar Angelov
Gee why isn't anyone talking about how long it takes to charge the car compared to getting gas.? And that all gas cars can go a lot further than electric. And repairs are a lot cheaper too. Example... A regular car battery is cheaper and easier to install. And a known fact is you have spend thousands of dollars to have a ev station installed at your home. And most real small towns don't have ev stations. So electric cars r useless. A gas car doesn't need plugged in at home.,, there's money saved...
For the most part, you are…
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In reply to Gee why isn't anyone talking… by Gordon (not verified)
For the most part, you are right. In my personal opinion, EVs are only good for short to medium-range trips.
For all other purposes, ICE-powered cars are still the GOAT.
And we've all seen the queues at charging stations. EV owners wait hours on end to get their turn. It's ridiculous.